NPS Science Fest, April 26

April 24, 2014 -

Agoura Hills, CAIn commemoration of National Park Week April 19-27, Los Angeles very own national park will host Science Fest at Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The fifth annual, family-friendly event features hands-on demonstrations, live animals, guided hikes and more than 50 interactive exhibits.

Science Fest is a chance for people of all ages to experience fun science with real-life scientists studying bugs, mountain lions, plants, birds, fossils and more, said Dr. Christy Brigham, chief of planning, science and resource management at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA). Its a great way to get young people excited about nature and the outdoors.

In addition to earning a Junior Ranger patch, attendees can learn how to track a mountain lion, identify lizards and conduct scientific experiments. Rangers will lead nature hikes and visitors can enjoy a full schedule of science talks, videos and live animal shows. Both the event and parking are free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to bring water, a hat and lunch. Food vendors will be available on site.

The event is co-sponsored by Childrens Nature Institute, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, NatureBridge and the Santa Monica Mountains Fund.

SMMNRAThe largest urban national park in the country, encompasses more than 150,000 acres of mountains and coastline in Ventura and Los Angeles counties. A unit of the National Park System, it comprises a seamless network of local, state and federal parks interwoven with private lands and communities. As one of only five Mediterranean ecosystems in the world, SMMNRA preserves the rich biological diversity of more than 450 animal species and 26 distinct plant communities. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/samo.